The neurodiversity affirming (NDA) movement has been gaining significant traction among healthcare providers, led by allied health professionals with lived experience. Most music therapists recognize the need to transition toward NDA practice, but a greater focus on building genuine NDA relationships with clients is crucial for the benefit of both clients and therapists. When neurodiversity is respected, celebrated, and embraced, clients feel understood and validated, enhancing their therapeutic outcomes and personal growth. Meanwhile, therapists gain deeper insights and fulfillment from connecting with their clients and learning from their unique perspectives. This reciprocal dynamic fosters a more effective, sustainable, and empathetic therapeutic environment, leading to better overall results and a more satisfying professional experience for therapists.

What does this mean practically, however? Due to the busy workloads of RMTs in Australia, it can be argued that RMTs may not have the capacity to keep completely up to date with advances in practice, academic research, and terminology. Therefore, our presentation aims to approach the topic of NDA practice in an accessible format where RMTs can resonate with and relate to common challenges in everyday work.

Co-regulation in therapy is a two-way process where the therapist assists another in emotional regulation by holding space for themselves and the other person. For therapists, self-regulation is imperative to effectively hold space for another, which is not possible without developing a strong sense of interoception. Interoception involves awareness of internal bodily feelings and extending this awareness to emotional origins. Creative music therapy can be a perfect avenue for co-regulation, facilitating emotional expression and connection through musical interaction. Additionally, creativity places RMTs in a great position to develop NDA relationships, as it encourages adaptive and individualised approaches that honour each client's unique experiences and strengths. Prioritising interoception and co-regulation must form the foundation of all approaches in healthcare professions. For the mental health of both clients and therapists, it is crucial that RMTs understand and align their practice with an NDA approach.

The presentation will explain the terminology and perspectives around the NDA approach in layman's terms, highlighting the benefits of building NDA relationships. It will emphasize the importance of prioritizing co-regulation and interoception as foundational pillars for authentic personal growth. Additionally, the presentation will address the potential consequences of not prioritising NDA relationships, such as therapist burnout and imposter syndrome, underscoring the importance of embracing diversity within music therapy practice and research.